High Risk of Dengue Fever in Haleiwa, Hawaii
The Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) has issued a warning to residents of Haleiwa after highly dense populations of the Aedes albopictus mosquito were found around a resident’s home. This discovery comes on the heels of another confirmed case of travel-related dengue in the area.
With high visitor traffic around the popular Haleiwa Harbor, the DOH is urging the public to take precautions to prevent the spread of dengue fever. Vector control teams are currently treating the area and monitoring for an increased risk of transmission.
The DOH is advising residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites and eliminate breeding sites around their homes. Teams are going door to door in Haleiwa to offer free inspections and provide guidance on preventing the spread of the virus.
While the dengue virus is not established in Hawaii, it can be spread through infected mosquitoes. Symptoms of dengue include fever, nausea, rash, and body aches. Since the beginning of the year, there have been 10 travel-related cases reported in Hawaii, with five individuals traveling to Central or South America and five to Asia.
For more information on preventing mosquito-borne diseases, the DOH website offers valuable resources and tips. Stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect yourself and your community from the threat of dengue fever.